Where to stay in Cinque Terre

Michelle, At this late date, I'm not sure you'll have a choice on which town to stay in. A more relevant question is whether you can even find a Hotel at all at this late date. I often start booking in March for travel in September in the Cinque Terre. I'd suggest getting something booked SOON! While you could be lucky and find something easily, at that time of year it's not likely. You may have to increase your budget and take what you can get. You can start checking out the lodgings on the Monterosso list. Do you have a copy of the Italy guidebook? There are lots of suggestions for lodgings in all of the towns. If you need further suggestions, post another note. I'd suggest staying in Monterosso, as not only is it the largest of the five towns, but has the nicest sandy beaches. There's a great selection of restaurants, and it's very easy to get to the other towns via the local train or boats. YES!!! A/C is a MUST for August. In my experience, it's also a MUST in September. While it does cool off at night, you'll have a much more comfortable sleep with A/C. Regarding hiking, note that a Park Pass is compulsory for the Sentiero Azzuro trails (one of which is still closed). Happy travels!

It is going to be tough to find a nice place at this late date, but yes, A/C is a must! We were there last week and it was in the 90s, with very high humidity. Don't go expecting waves or "beaches" as we know them in CA. It is fun for hiking, checking out the architecture, and eating, but you don't go to Cinque Terre for beach when you are from HB :) We actually stayed in Levanto, 1 town north of Monterosso, which was much more quiet and less "touristy" than any of the actual Cinque Terre towns...and much cheaper! Our a/c was broken and the bed was not comfy, so make sure you read all of the reviews wherever you book. Do take the time to visit Carerra and the marble caves if you can...that was the highlight of our trip! The Cavo di Marmo / Marmo tour was fantastic. If Valentina is your tour guide, tell her you are from CA and she will tell you about her love for Ceasar Milan :) I wish I had a line to him to get him over there! If you are following Rick's packing guides and planning on washing things in the sink, be aware that the humidity is so high there things may not dry. That was a little scary for us.

I found a room in Vernazza...go to Savevernazza site....there is a small beach/swimming area and of course access to the CT trails. They are still recovering from the big flash flood disaster last October.
Amy

Just passed through ct. Stayed at il parco in monterrosso. Fantastic placesmall pool, ac, wifi, great views. Only downside is 160 steps down and up(!) to place. Hills and steps are part of the deal in ct! Marta, whose family runs the place is fantastic.